East Longmeadow Plans for Commercial Kenneling and Solar Array

Overview: In a recent meeting of the East Longmeadow Planning Board, a proposed amendment to allow commercial kenneling in an industrial Zone District by special permit was a significant topic of discussion. This proposal, presented by a local business owner and her representative, highlighted the need for overnight kenneling services and sparked debate over the potential impact on neighboring properties. Concerns were voiced about noise and the need for specific criteria for the special permit.

Montgomery School Board Addresses Financial Health and Student Success

Overview: The Montgomery School Board meeting addressed a variety of issues, with discussions on the district’s fiscal prudence following the SimpliCling Company’s annual audit report and the celebration of student achievements, including the recognition of National Merit Scholar finalists and the success of the high school’s academic and extracurricular activities.

Maynard Select Board Debates Future Use of Old Fire Station

Overview: At the recent Maynard Select Board meeting, the future of the old fire station at One Summer Street emerged as the focal point of discussions, drawing considerable public input on its potential uses, ranging from an arts space to a commercial property aimed at benefitting the town’s business environment. The debate encapsulated concerns over the impact on the town’s tax base and the desire to preserve the building’s historical significance. Additionally, the board tackled a variety of issues including contractual matters concerning Verizon, the W 4 water treatment plant project, and the status of the 61-63 Summer Street property.

Amherst Council Advances Track Project Amid Funding Concerns

Overview: In a development during the Amherst Town Council meeting, members voted to approve the reauthorization of a $1.5 million Regional School debt for a track project at the Amherst Regional High School. The project, which has been a topic of much debate, includes several options ranging from maintaining the current track to relocating and expanding it with various infield choices. The decision to recommend reauthorizing the debt was not without its concerns; councilors expressed reservations regarding the uncertainty of the final project, long-term maintenance, funding sources, stormwater drainage, and the alignment with the Athletic Facility strategic plan. Despite these issues, the council moved forward with the recommendation, noting that failing to reauthorize the debt would result in the loss of funds from both the regional school budget and the town’s capital budget.

Hampden Board Greenlights National Grid Pole, Debates Expenses

Overview: At a recent meeting, the Hampden Board of Selectmen approved a pole position request by National Grid amid discussions on budgetary concerns, including a potential 21% increase in property and liability insurance and a 3.5% cost-of-living adjustment recommendation. Key topics included the underfunding of Finn’s operation, the ambulance service’s positive performance, and the water district’s budget increase due to testing costs. The board also scrutinized the Community Preservation Trust’s land purchase proposal, pondered over the funding for a new fire station design, and contemplated using ARPA funds for a water district project to provide clean water to homes.